Intelligent Lock Proximity Mode and RF Shielding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remotely activated locks lack adaptability and configurability to optimize user needs and environments, often resulting in unintentional activation or deactivation, and lack features for tracking locking/unlocking history.
Innovation Solution
An intelligent lock that uses wireless communication to detect trusted devices within a selectable range, allowing for configurable proximity mode activation/deactivation via a trusted device, with features like RF shielding for improved communication and an indicator for user notification, enabling one-touch unlocking and secure ID association for authorized devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If remote activation is enabled for convenience, then user convenience is improved, but unauthorized activation risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock system continuously monitors and detects the presence of authorized portable devices through wireless communication. This feedback mechanism ensures that the lock only responds to commands from authenticated devices, maintaining security while enabling remote operation convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
An authorized portable device acts as an intermediary between the user and the lock system. The device must be authenticated and maintain wireless communication with the lock, serving as a secure mediator that prevents unauthorized activation while enabling convenient remote operation.
2Ease of operation
If automatic proximity detection is implemented, then user convenience is improved, but unintentional activation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its response based on the proximity and authentication status of portable devices. When an authorized device is detected within the predetermined distance, the lock enters a responsive state where it can be activated by simple user input, balancing convenience with control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters based on detected conditions. When an authorized device is within the predetermined distance, the lock transitions from a dormant state to an active state where activation commands are recognized, allowing users to control activation based on their presence and intent.
3Ease of operation
If wireless communication range is extended, then user convenience is improved, but security against unauthorized devices worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary authentication of portable devices before allowing communication or activation. By verifying device authorization in advance, the lock can safely extend its wireless communication range without compromising security, as only authenticated devices can interact with the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock continuously monitors wireless communications for authenticated devices within the extended range. This feedback mechanism ensures that even though the range is extended, only authorized devices can trigger activation, maintaining security while improving user convenience.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances user convenience by allowing customizable proximity settings, reduces unintentional lock activation, and provides secure, efficient operation with enhanced communication and notification features, while tracking locking/unlocking history for trusted devices.
Implementation Method 1
senses, using wireless communication (Bluetooth, Bluetooth LE, wireless communication based on or according to protocols such as IEEE 802.11b or more generally IEEE 802.11x (Wi-Fi), etc., or a combination) via a wireless antenna, the presence of one or more trusted interactive portable devices
Implementation Method 2
One or more additional commands can optionally be sent from the trusted device while in proximity of the lock for operating one or more functions of the lock
Data Source
AI summary
A method for operating a lock. A wireless command is received from a trusted device in a proximity range of the lock to enable a proximity mode. The proximity range is selectable by a user of the trusted device via an application. The proximity mode is enabled, and while enabled, a command is received to activate or deactivate the lock. The lock is activated or deactivated in response to the received activating or deactivating command.